Masks - Vision Correcting

If you wear eyeglasses that correct nearsightedness, (i.e. you require distance vision correction), we offer vision correcting lenses in a range of values that you can order installed in several of our most popular dive masks. If you need magnification in order to read a book or view a computer screen (i.e. you are farsighted), then you will benefit from using one of our bifocal "gauge reader" masks.

Ordering Vision Correcting Lenses for Dive Masks

To order, consult your eyeglass or contact prescription for the proper amount of spherical power correction, and then select the mask lenses. When reading your prescription, "OS" means your left eye, and "OD" means your right eye. The power of the correction amount is referred to as the "sphere" value expressed in diopters, and we offer vision correction lenses pre-manufactured in a range of diopter values. If your Rx also has "cylinder" and "axis" values, you have an astigmatism and our
lenses do not correct for astigmatism.

The sphere strength for the lenses that correct nearsightedness, i.e. for divers that require distance vision correction, are negative values ranging from -1.0 to -8.0 diopter in half diopters. If you have a
quarter diopter prescription, then increase to the next higher diopter. For example, if the Rx is -1.75, then increase to -2.0 diopter. If one eye needs no correction, then order a "Plano" lens for that side. Note,
if your Rx sphere value is "+" then you are farsighted, also known as presbyopia, and unfortunately we only offer farsighted correction in the form of bifocal lenses.

If you need vision correction in order to read a book or view a phone screen, then you will benefit from using one of our bifocal "gauge reader" masks. A inset at the bottom of each lens adds magnification to see close-up objects, such as gauges, with clarity and yet still provide a means for clear sight at distances. A magnification of +2 diopters works for most people but some masks can be configured with bifocal lenses of +1, +2 or +3 diopters. Conventional wisdom suggests you can estimate + diopter reading value by age: 40 years old -start with a +1, then 50 years old use +2, and 60 years old select +3. However, making your selection based on your personal vision prescription is best.

Finally, all the standard vision correcting masks offered by Dive Gear Express have the correction ground into the lenses themselves. The correction is not aftermarket 'stick on', each of the lenses are ground just like you would expect on a pair of eyeglasses. Please note that the bifocal gauge reader versions are a two layer lens bonded at the factory prior to grinding.

WARNING

Don't use toothpaste on modern dive masks, especially those masks that have vision correction lenses. You will either damage the lenses, or needlessly waste toothpaste since most modern toothpaste formulations are not at all abrasive. The same goes for using a lighter to 'burn' the lens to prepare a new mask. Dive Gear Express will not warranty masks that have been treated with abrasives or burned with lighters. Most new dive masks do have mold release agents in the flexible skirt that during storage will migrate to the surface of the lens and cause fogging. These deposits can be safely removed with an extra application of a powerful surfactant like baby shampoo, SeaQuick or SeaDrops defog.

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Fins and Masks FAQ

We are often asked for sizing advice on Fins. Unfortunately we don't have much to add beyond what is mentioned on the website in our product descriptions. The only general statement we can make is that the most common exchange we see is for the next size larger.

There is no size standardization between brands of fins (or even between different models from the same brand) and so you cannot assume that a size in one brand of fin is the same dimensions as the size in another brand; even when the designs look very similar. Taking some actual measurements of your boot while on your foot and comparing to our foot pocket dimension charts will help determine the size selection for your desired fit.

If you are not certain about your fin size then our recommendation is not to order until you can make that determination. While Dive Gear Express will accept fins for return, fins do not qualify for a free prepaid return label.

"Near sighted" correction allows clear distance vision for general diving activities. We offer a predetermined selection of single vision lenses that are installed in our "Vision Correction Masks". This will require your vision prescription to select the lenses needed for this mask.

"Far sighted" correction allows clear near vision for reading numbers and text from dive computers and SPG's. We offer a predetermined selection of bifocal lenses that are installed in our "Gauge Reader Masks". The upper portion of the lens is flat with no correction and lowering your eyes to the bifocal segment provides magnification for reading. Most people who need Gauge Readers already use reading glasses and know how much magnification they prefer.

All the standard vision correcting masks offered by Dive Gear Express have the correction ground into the lenses themselves. The correction is not aftermarket 'stick on', each of the lenses are ground just like you would expect on a pair of eyeglasses. Please note that the bifocal gauge reader versions are a two layer lens bonded at the factory prior to grinding.

All our vision correction masks use lenses that have been manufactured in a predetermined range of diopters for either "near sighted" correction (minus values) or "far sighted" correction (plus values, aka "gauge readers"), but not both in the same lens. Our predetermined range of vision correction lenses are a great value, but unfortunately are not suitable for every diver needing vision correction and especially not those with significant astigmatism.

If our lenses do not work for you, then custom made prescription vision correction lenses are an alternative solution. Because that can be expensive, we suggest first test diving an ordinary new mask to be certain it is a good fit for your face. Send your selected mask along with your vision prescription directly to an optical company that specializes in custom making and installing dive mask lenses. Three such long established US companies are: Prescription Dive Masks, SeaVision USA, and Scuba Optics.